Five keys to beating the Seahawks

1. PREVENT THE DEEP PASS: Every defense wants to limit the big pass play, but it’s particularly crucial against the Seahawks. Rookie quarterback Russell Wilson doesn’t throw that much, in fact he’s the only starter in the league who has yet to complete 20 passes in any one game. However, he thrives on the deep throw. Wilson helped beat New England with touchdown passes of 46 and 24 yards and he had another completion of 48 yards.

The rapidly developing Wilson cleverly finds nooks in the pocket from which to throw and he’s scrambling is reminiscent of Fran Tarkenton, for those old timers who remember the Vikings and Giants Hall of Famer. Wilson’s ability to extend plays allows his receivers to work their way free.

The Seahawks’ deep passing game also functions much like the 49ers with play-action out of run formations with only two or three receivers in the route. The key to both attacks is a strong running game, which brings us to the second key.

2. STOP THE RUN: The 49ers front seven is hurting psychologically a little bit as evidenced by linebacker Patrick Willis’ comments this week. They have never allowed another team to run down their throats like the Giants did at the end of Sunday’s 26-3 New York win. Now they face a runner that’s similar to Giant Ahmad Bradshaw in Marshawn Lynch. Except Lynch is bigger, stronger and faster and leads the NFC in carries (128) and yards (549).

Last year, Lynch broke the 49ers’ streak of preventing a 100-yard rusher at 36 games, and he’ll be highly motivated this week after gaining only 41 yards on 15 carries against the Patriots. Inside linebackers NaVorro Bowman and Patrick Willis will also be motivated after being criticized by NFL analyst and former NFL linebacker Matt Millen.

Additionally, if the 49ers can subdue Lynch, the onus of the offense shifts to rookie quarterback Wilson. He responded last week against New England, but he doesn’t have the experience to carry the offense every game.

3. PLAY BETTER SPECIAL TEAMS: The Seahawks defense ranks fourth in the league and second against the run with their large front seven. It means the 49ers will need help this week from special teams, something they didn’t get in their loss to the Giants. David Akers missed two field goals last week and he’ll need to channel last year’s accuracy against the Seahawks when kicked eight field goals against them. Coverage units also need to be better against returner Leon Washington.

Seattle is ranked third in punt return average and fourth in kick return average, meanwhile the 49ers are 30th in punt return average allowed and 31st in kick return average allowed. Real estate will be at a premium with these two teams because of their strong defenses, and the 49ers need to win the battle of field position.

4. SUSTAIN DRIVES: Seattle can overwhelm offenses with their girth and strength particularly in their front four. However their size can work against them if they are on the field constantly. Chances are good this will be a tight low-scoring game and the 49ers could break through in the fourth quarter if they can keep the Seahawks defense on the field. The time of possession will be critical.

5. ROLL OUT ALEX SMITH: The 49ers are 31st in sacks per pass play, and much of that is quarterback Alex Smith’s fault. He has not gotten rid of the ball quickly. Also Alex Boone is likely to start at left tackle against defensive end Chris Clemons, who has 6.5 sacks and a lightening quick first step. Rolling Smith out of the pocket could be the key to relieving pressure on him.

Also, the Seahawks cornerbacks Richard Sherman (formerly of Jim Harbaugh’s Stanford Cardinal) and Brandon Browner are 6-3 and 6-4 respectively. They are the foundation of the Seahawks’ pass defense because they tie receivers up at the line of scrimmage and by the time the receivers get untangled, the Seattle pass rush is descending on the quarterback.

However, they can lose receivers if the play is extended. Rolling Smith out could buy additional time. Also Smith might need to maneuver to allow his receivers to work open against these big corners. Another way to combat the Seahawks aggressive play is with a slot receiver. Patriot Wes Welker had a big day against the aging Marcus Trufant and Kyle Williams could be a weapon tonight for the 49ers from the slot.